High levels of uric acid can lead to gout or kidney stones if left unattended. Here are some ways to keep your uric acid levels in check.
Have you ever heard of purine? It is a chemical compound found in foods that can lead to the formation of uric acid. Some foods contain more purine than others and are metabolized in the body. Normally, uric acid is excreted through the kidneys and in urine. However, when you consume too much purine or your body is unable to eliminate it efficiently, it results in a buildup of uric acid in your body, which can have negative effects on your health. Let’s explore more about uric acid and its impact on the body.
What is uric acid?
Uric acid is a byproduct created when the body breaks down purines, which are compounds found in various foods. Excessive purine consumption can lead to high uric acid levels, also known as hyperuricemia. Elevated uric acid levels are typically defined as greater than 7 mg/dl in men and 6 mg/dl in women. According to StatPearls, hyperuricemia affects 38 million Americans and is on the rise globally.
![uric acid levels uric acid levels](https://images.healthshots.com/healthshots/en/uploads/2024/05/07131456/uric-acid-1-370x207.jpg)
Uric acid is produced when your body breaks down purine-containing foods. Normally, uric acid is dissolved in the blood, filtered by the kidneys, and eliminated through urine. However, excessive uric acid can accumulate and form crystals, which can deposit in the joints, resulting in gout. These crystals can also accumulate in the kidneys and form kidney stones. Gout is characterized by sudden and severe joint pain, often in the big toe but can affect other joints as well. Managing uric acid levels through dietary changes and medications is crucial to prevent complications like gout and kidney stones.
What are the symptoms of high uric acid?
Elevated uric acid levels may not always manifest noticeable symptoms. However, individuals may experience symptoms when uric acid levels are high enough to cause kidney stones or gout.
Symptoms of gout include:
- Discoloration or redness of joints
- Painful or swollen joints
- Joint stiffness
- Tender bones
Symptoms of kidney stones:
- Pain in the lower back or side
- Back pain
- Frequent urination
- Cloudy, smelly, or bloody urine
- Nausea or vomiting
- Inability to urinate
What causes high uric acid?
1. High purine foods
Uric acid is produced in the body after breaking down foods rich in purine. Consuming purine-rich foods in moderation usually does not cause issues. However, regular consumption of high-purine foods can lead to hyperuricemia. Foods and beverages high in purine content include:
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- Red meat
- Fish
- Poultry
- Shellfish
- Organ meats
2. Other causes
In addition to regular consumption of purine-rich foods, other factors can contribute to elevated uric acid levels:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- High blood pressure or hypertension
- Consumption of sugary drinks
- Use of diuretics
- Immune-suppressing medications
- Obesity
- Psoriasis
- Niacin or vitamin B3 supplements
- Kidney problems
- Genetic predisposition
- Consumption of fructose-containing foods or drinks
- Leukemia
- Metabolic syndrome
There could be other factors contributing to high uric acid levels, so consulting a doctor is advisable to prevent complications.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing hyperuricemia may involve tests, medical history review, and a physical examination. Hyperuricemia is typically diagnosed through a blood test to measure uric acid levels in the blood.
Treatment of high uric acid
Treatment for high uric acid levels may involve following a low-purine diet to reduce purine levels and limit certain foods and drinks like alcohol, red meat, and shellfish. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to reduce inflammation associated with gout. In some cases, specific medications can help reduce inflammation.
Kidney stones may resolve on their own or require medical intervention for removal. Increasing fluid intake, avoiding alcohol and carbonated beverages, may be recommended by healthcare providers.
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How to prevent high uric acid levels?
1. Maintain a healthy weight
Excess weight can contribute to elevated uric acid levels. It is essential to maintain a balanced diet and engage in regular exercise to keep your weight in check.
2. Stay hydrated
Your body eliminates uric acid through the kidneys. Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day can help flush out uric acid and prevent its buildup in the body.
3. Limit alcohol consumption
Alcohol consumption can increase the production of uric acid and decrease its excretion. It is advisable to limit alcohol intake to prevent high uric acid levels.
4. Monitor your protein intake
While protein is essential for bodily functions, excessive consumption of high-protein foods can elevate uric acid levels. Opt for lean protein sources and balance your protein intake to avoid complications.
5. Reduce sugary foods
Fruits and honey contain fructose, a natural sugar that can increase uric acid levels upon breakdown. High consumption of sugary foods and beverages, especially those with fructose, can contribute to elevated uric acid levels. It is recommended to avoid sugary drinks, sweets, and processed foods.
6. Manage stress
Chronic stress can trigger inflammation and contribute to uric acid buildup. Practicing stress-relieving techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or engaging in enjoyable hobbies can help manage stress levels.
![A stressed woman A stressed woman](https://images.healthshots.com/healthshots/en/uploads/2024/04/17142230/stress-370x207.jpg)
7. Avoid purine-rich foods
Foods high in purine content increase the risk of hyperuricemia. To prevent high uric acid levels, it is advisable to avoid purine-rich foods such as red meat, organ meats, and fish.
8. Increase fiber intake
Consuming more fiber can help lower uric acid levels and support overall health. Fiber also aids in maintaining insulin and blood sugar balance, promotes satiety, and prolongs the feeling of fullness.